Homemade Marshmallows

Perfect with the Homemade Hot Cocoa posted above!
...from The Homesteading Housewife

4 envelopes unflavored gelatin (Knox brand works great)
3 cups sugar
1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
Water
Electric Mixer with whisk attachment (but a regular hand mixer will work, too)

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, & 3/4 cup water.
Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar.
Continue the with the roiling boil without stirring for one full minute, or until mixture registers 238 degrees on a candy thermometer.

Meanwhile, put 3/4 cup cold water into the bowl of your electric mixer; sprinkle gelatin into the water. Let it sit to soften for about 5 minutes.

Slowly pour hot sugar syrup into the gelatin mixture with the mixer on low speed. Gradually increase to high speed & beat for approximately 6 minutes. Slowly add vanilla extract while beating. Beat on high for another 5-6 minutes, until very stiff peaks form.
(approximately 10-12 min total whipping time)

Pour & spread into a greased 9 x 13 pan. Leave uncovered for at least 3 hours, allowing them to firm up.

Sprinkle powdered sugar onto your work surface & empty the marshmallow slab onto the powdered sugar. Cut into squares. Or use decorative cookie cutters thoroughly coated in powdered sugar (to prevent sticking).
Coat each marshmallow with powdered sugar & store in an air-tight container for up to 1 week.